The debate between supporters of biotechnology and non-GMO adherents has grown increasingly strident. Biotech seed makers like Monsanto (along with some farmer groups) argue that GMOs are essential to global food security. Organic food companies and consumer groups disagree: they feel that GMO use is detrimental to land and animals, and may also be contributing to serious human health issues.
The increased polarization prompted the USDA to convene a two-day summit to eke out consensus on “agricultural coexistence.”
Jacob Bunge (@jacobbunge) reports for Wall Street Journal:
“The one thing I am really tired of is division,” said Tom Vilsack, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, at the event at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, N.C. “This is about finding a path forward.”
It appears unlikely to happen.
“Organic is the future of American agriculture,” said Errol Schweizer, executive global grocery coordinator for Whole Foods Market.
“We’re not going to feed the world with organic foods,” said Dan Glickman, executive director of the Aspen Institute, a public policy think tank in Washington, and a former U.S. secretary of agriculture.
One thing everyone agrees on? The disagreements cost everyone money.
An interesting, comprehensive and balanced piece.